[Characterization of the family health strategy in Amazonas state, Brazil: an analysis of implementation and impact].

This article focuses on the implementation of the Family Health Program (FHP) in municipalities (counties) in the State of Amazonas, Brazil, analyzing potential population coverage, evidence of change in the health care model, and impact (2004 and 2008). Implementation was classified as fair versus unsatisfactory. The findings showed an increase in the number of municipalities with the FHP implemented, as well as in the program's coverage (which nevertheless was less than 50% of the population). Concerning change in the health care model, no municipalities were observed with a high rate of change. As for impact, there was a decrease in low impact and an increase in high impact. The final classification did not show a statistically significant change from one year to the next, and unsatisfactory implementation prevailed in the municipalities of the State of Amazonas. Evaluation of the FHP is not simple, since there are various factors involved in the issue. Further studies could reveal the factors that explain the program's suboptimal implementation in the State of Amazonas.